Lake Country announced on Tuesday its adopted a new Business Licensing Law.
The new Business Licensing Bylaw allows start-ups to operate the first year of business for free, starting in 2018.
The purpose is to speed up the process of issuing permits, reduce costs for start-ups and improve the service for business owners.
"Based on research, a first-year free business license does not exist in any other community," said Jamie McEwan, community development manager for the District of Lake Country.
“Local businesses and the people we serve together are the backbone of the economy. For many businesses, their first year can be the most challenging,” stated McEwan. “The District wants to see more start-ups in the community, while at the same time continue to see existing businesses thrive.”
The bylaw comes into effect on January 1st, 2018.
As a result of this new bylaw, the District said its improved its timelines for processing business license applications.
A survey has been added to business applications in order to receive ongoing feedback from local businesses.
The District said the new license also promotes economic development through things like Business Walks and site visits.
Mayor James Baker said he's excited about the new bylaw and said it will make the District more "business friendly."
"We are always looking at new ways to provide the best possible experience for businesses in the community. In 2016 Lake Country received an ‘Open for Business’ award from the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) and was acknowledged as a leader among other BC communities," said Mayor Baker.
The new Business Licensing Bylaw 1000 was adopted at the June 6, 2017 Regular Council meeting.
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